Travel Guide
Pulau Perhentian is reached by speedboat from Jeti Tok Bali (Kelantan) or Kuala Besut (Terengganu). Here is how to reach either jetty — from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Bharu, or Kuala Terengganu.
Drive via the East Coast Expressway (PLUS/E8) towards Kota Bharu — approximately 6–7 hours. Alternatively, fly to Kota Bharu Airport (Sultan Ismail Petra, BKM), which takes about 1 hour. From Kota Bharu, Jeti Tok Bali is a 30–45 minute drive south to Pasir Puteh.
Jeti Tok Bali is approximately 30 minutes south of Kota Bharu city centre via the Kota Bharu–Pasir Puteh road. Follow signs to Pasir Puteh, then continue toward the coast to Tok Bali. Secure parking is available at the jetty for RM 15/day.
If approaching from the south, Kuala Besut Jetty in Terengganu is approximately 1.5 hours from Kuala Terengganu by car. Kuala Besut is also accessible by bus from major southern cities. From Besut, speedboats depart regularly to Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil.
Once at the jetty, the speedboat journey to Pulau Perhentian takes approximately 45–60 minutes. Boats depart from Jeti Tok Bali at 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily. A minimum of 6 passengers is required per departure.
| Factor | Jeti Tok Bali (Kelantan) | Kuala Besut (Terengganu) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Kota Bharu arrivals, northern travellers | KL drivers, southern arrivals |
| Nearest city | Kota Bharu (~30 min) | Kuala Terengganu (~1.5 hrs) |
| Facilities | Premium lounge, restaurant, parking | Commercial terminal, more operators |
| Daily departures | 2 (8 AM & 2 PM) | Multiple throughout the day |
| Parking | Guarded, RM 15/day | Available on-site |
FAQ
Jeti Tok Bali is approximately 30–45 minutes by car from Kota Bharu city centre, and about 45 minutes from Kota Bharu Airport (Sultan Ismail Petra).
Public transport to Tok Bali is limited. Most travellers drive or take a taxi. From Kota Bharu, local transport to Pasir Puteh is available, but the jetty is best reached by private vehicle.
The speedboat journey from Jeti Tok Bali to Pulau Perhentian takes approximately 45–60 minutes depending on sea conditions.
Boats depart from Jeti Tok Bali at 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily, subject to weather and minimum passenger requirements.
Yes, secure guarded parking is available at Jeti Tok Bali for RM 15 per day. It is safe to leave your car for multi-day island stays.
Both jetties are similar in distance to Pulau Perhentian. The speedboat journey from either takes approximately 45–60 minutes. Choose based on where you are travelling from.